Pet-Friendly Neighbourhoods in Calgary: Where to Find Fido’s Forever Home

Searching for the perfect Calgary neighbourhood as a pet owner is more than just finding a home; it’s about choosing a community that caters to you and your furry friend’s needs. It can be challenging, but worth the effort to ensure your dog (or cat) has the best environment for a happy and healthy life. Pet-friendly neighbourhoods are not just about homes that allow pets—they also offer access to parks, walking trails, pet amenities, and welcoming communities. Whether you’re looking for spacious green areas, pet services, or vibrant social scenes that accommodate dog owners, Calgary has plenty to offer.

Beltline

One of Calgary’s most vibrant inner-city neighbourhoods, Beltline is a fantastic choice for pet owners who love city living but don’t want to compromise on outdoor activities. Despite its urban setting, Beltline offers plenty of green spaces and parks for your pet’s enjoyment.

Key Features:

• Central Memorial Park: A beautiful, historic park in the heart of the neighbourhood, perfect for walks or a quiet spot to relax with your pet.
• Off-leash Areas: While the Beltline may be busy, it’s also home to some great off-leash areas, like Connaught Off-Leash Park, which is ideal for exercising your dog.
• Pet-Friendly Establishments: Beltline boasts several pet-friendly cafes and stores, so you can take your dog with you while grabbing a coffee or running errands.

Bridgeland/Riverside

Bridgeland offers a great balance between a family-friendly environment and proximity to urban amenities. It’s known for its charming streets, lively community events, and, most importantly, pet-friendly features.

Key Features:

• Dog-Friendly Parks: Bridgeland has fantastic parks, including Murdoch Park and the Bridgeland Riverside Off-Leash Area. These provide ample space for your dog to stretch their legs while you enjoy views of the Bow River.
• Walkable Streets: The neighbourhood is known for its pedestrian-friendly design, which makes it easy to walk your dog daily.
• Community Vibe: Bridgeland has a warm, welcoming community that embraces pets. Many local businesses are dog-friendly, and pet owners congregate at outdoor cafes with their dogs.

Inglewood

Inglewood is a historic neighbourhood that offers a quirky and artsy vibe. It’s also an excellent choice for pet owners due to its proximity to nature and numerous pet-friendly businesses.

Key Features:

• Bow River Pathway: This extensive network of trails runs along the Bow River and is ideal for long, scenic walks with your dog. Whether walking, jogging, or cycling, you and your pet can enjoy the fresh air and breathtaking views.
• Pearce Estate Park: Located within Inglewood, this large park offers a peaceful escape with plenty of room for pets to roam. It’s also home to a section of the Bow Habitat Station, making it educational.
• Pet Services: Inglewood has a growing number of pet services, including grooming salons and pet supply stores.

Kensington

Kensington is a trendy, walkable neighbourhood located just across the Bow River from downtown Calgary. Known for its hip atmosphere and cultural events, it’s also a haven for dog lovers.

Key Features:

• Riley Park: This urban park offers vast green spaces for picnics and strolls and is home to beautiful flower gardens. While not off-leash, it’s an excellent place for on-leash walks and relaxation.
• Off-Leash Parks Nearby: Though Kensington doesn’t have off-leash parks, Hillhurst Sunnyside has a fantastic off-leash dog park for those looking for some off-leash fun.
• Pet-Friendly Businesses: Cafes, bookstores, and shops line the main streets of Kensington and welcome dogs. You’ll find water bowls outside many shops, and some cafes even offer treats for well-behaved pups. Don’t forget the Regal Cat Café, owned by the Meow Foundation. You can cuddle with the kitties or visit with those up for adoption.

Altadore

Altadore is known for its tree-lined streets. It is a popular neighbourhood for families and pet owners due to its many parks and outdoor activities.

Key Features:

• River Park: One of the most popular off-leash parks in Calgary, River Park offers expansive green spaces and stunning views of the Elbow River. It’s a favourite spot for dog owners across the city.
• Outdoor Activities: Altadore provides easy access to the Elbow River Pathway, where you can enjoy long walks or bike rides with your pet. In the summer, the river is perfect for cooling off.
• Family-Oriented Atmosphere: Altadore’s peaceful, family-friendly vibe means plenty of other pet owners are in the area, making it easy to connect with like-minded neighbours.

Ultimately, finding the perfect pet-friendly neighbourhood in Calgary depends on your lifestyle, your dog’s energy level, and which community best suits your needs. Happy house-hunting, and give your dog or cat a pet from us! Want to know which neighbourhood is best for you? Reach out to a Benchmark Realtor today!